Such was his popularity that lesley organised two funerals for her husband, first at St John’s Church in Nelson, and this week at Burnley Crematorium, with both services packed with mourners.

Lesley added: “Geoffrey loved his work. I think this was because he got to meet so many people and figure out solutions to awkward problems.

“I had to make him go on holiday because he loved work so much. I would like to thank Timpson’s for allowing so many of their employees to take time off work to attend the funeral.

“Together, we’ve made a lot of friends who are helping me get through this difficult time. I am very grateful to my friend Joyce, who has been wonderful.”

Lesley has made donations to the mental health charity MIND and asked others to do so in Geoffrey’s memory.

An inquest is expected to be heard into his death in the near future.

She added: “If you asked anyone about Geoffrey they would just smile. He was the life and soul of the party. My only hope is that more support can be given to mental health in this country so other families will not have to go through this.”